The Magnitude and Risk Factors for Concurrent Anthropometric and Nutritional Deficiency Among Children Aged 6 to 59 Months in Liberia: A Multi-Level Analysis.

Abstract

Abstract Objective This study aimed to investigate the magnitude and risk factors associated with concurrent anthropometric and nutritional deficiencies among children aged 6 to 59 months in Liberia. Methods Using data from the 2019 Liberia Demographic and Health Survey (LDHS), a multilevel analysis was conducted to provide a comprehensive understanding of the problem. The prevalence of concurrent anthropometric and nutritional deficiencies, with a specific focus on stunting, wasting and anemia, was examined to assess the extent of the issue among children in Liberia. This study employed four different regression models, namely, panel mixed-effect Poisson regression, panel mixed-effect logistic regression, Poisson regression and conditional fixed-effect regression. Results The study's random and fixed effects showed important factors affecting nutritional deficits. Unobserved factors unique to each cluster affect nutritional outcomes, emphasizing the necessity for personalized interventions. Demographic and child factors matter, with 24–35-month-olds being more sensitive and females having lower incidence rates. Nutritional results also depend on maternal age and socioeconomic level. Vitamin A supplementation and immunization may protect mothers, although breastfeeding, maternal occupation, and hygiene vary. The results of this study have important implications for policy and program development in Liberia. Targeted interventions are needed to address the identified risk factors and reduce the prevalence of concurrent anthropometric and nutritional deficiencies. These interventions should be tailored to meet the specific needs of different subgroups within the population, considering factors such as age, sex, birth order, maternal education, household wealth status, and access to safe drinking water. Conclusion By implementing effective interventions that promote proper nutrition and growth, policymakers and stakeholders can work toward improving the health and well-being of children in Liberia and reducing the burden of concurrent anthropometric and nutritional deficiencies. We therefore recommend that policymakers and practitioners in Liberia emphasize cluster-specific interventions to promote child health due to high cluster-level variability.